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Traffic eastbound along Interstate 20 in Kaufman County was brought to a standstill following a fatality incident involving a box truck July 26. According to preliminary information made available by the Texas Department of Public Safety, a box truck was traveling eastbound just west of FM 429 just before 5 p.m.

Governor Greg Abbott encouraged Texans to remain vigilant during increased wildfire activity this week as the State of Texas continues ongoing coordinated wildfire response efforts through the Texas Division of Emergency Management (TDEM). Critical fire danger and widespread drought conditions have resulted in multiple wildfires continuing to burn across Texas, including the Chalk Mountain Fire in Somervell County and the 1148 Fire in Palo Pinto County. Both fires have caused local officials to issue voluntary evacuation orders for residents.

The temperatures here in Van Zandt County are taking a toll on plants and humans alike during this extreme heat we have all been experiencing in East Texas. Our office has been receiving numerous calls about residents’ concerns of how the hot temperatures and drought conditions are impacting plants and trees in our area. Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Agent Melisa Rhodes of Van Zandt County says there are some steps we can take to help our plants and trees survive this current weather trend.

Cities across Texas have endured record temperatures this summer, and it’s not solely the weather that’s to blame. Developed areas often experience higher temperatures than nearby rural areas when green spaces are replaced with roads, parking lots and large buildings that retain more heat during the day than natural landscapes.

Texas Agriculture Commissioner Sid Miller reminded Ag producers about the suspension of size and weight requirements on vehicles involved in agricultural activities they can take advantage of due to the drought and heat wave.

Church to host food giveaway East Texas Street Church of Christ, located at 508 E. Oak St.

The Van Zandt County Genealogical Society held its regular monthly meeting on Saturday, July 23, at the main county library in Canton. In addition to the group’s regular business, President Carrie Woolverton spoke of the Society’s newest project: To restore the very old Huffer-Rohrer Cemetery in southern Van Zandt County.

The City of Canton joined a growing chorus of Van Zandt County entities to call for water conservation efforts to intensify, following similar announcements issued by the cities of Wills Point, Van and Edgewood in recent weeks.